Download Craftsman 917.387254 Owner`s manual

Owner's Manual
rRRFTSMI:IN°
4.0 HORSEPOWER
20" REAR DISCHARGE
ROTARY LAWN MOWER
Model No.
917.387254
•
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Safety
Assembly
Operation
Maintenance
Espa_ol
Repair Parts
CAUTION:
Read and follow all
Safety Rules and instructions
before operating this equipment
Sears, Roebuck and Co., Hoffman Estates, IL 60179
Visit our Craftsman website: www.seam.condcraftsman
Warranty
Safety Rules
Assembly
Operation
Maintenance Schedule +
Maintenance
.
LIMITED ONE YEAR W,_RRANTY
2
2
4
5
8
8
Product Specifications
Service and Adjustments
Storage
Troubleshooting
Repair Parts
Parts Ordering
ON CRAFTSMAN
9
11
13
14
30
Back Cover
POWER MOWER
For one year from date of purchase, when this Craftsman Lawn Mower is maintained,
lubdcated, and tuned up according to the operating and maintenance instructions in the
owner's manual, Sears will repair free of charge any defect in material or workmanship.
If this Craftsman Lawn Mower is used for commercial or rental purposes, this warranty
applies for only 90 days from the date of purchase.
This Warranty does not cover:
• Expendable items which become worn during normal use, such as rotary mower
blades, blade adapters, belts, air cleaners and spark plug.
• Repairs necessary because of operator abuse or negligence, including bent crankshafts and the failure to maintain the equipmen t according to the instructions contained in the owner's manual.
Warranty service is available by retuming the Craftsman power mower to the nearest
Sears Service Center/Department in the United States. This warranty applies only while
this product is in use in the United States.
This Warranty gives you specific legal rights, and you may also have other rights which
vary from state to state.
SEARS, ROEBUCKAND CO., D/817 WA, HOFFMAN ESTATES, ILLINOIS 60179
TRAINING:
turer. Use of such attachments may be
hazardous.
• Read this operator's manual carefully.
Become familiar with the controls and
know how to operate your mower
properly. Learn how to quickly stop
mower.
• The blade turns when the engine is
running.
• Do not allow children to use your mower.
Never allow adults to use mower without
proper instructions.
• Keep the area of operation clear of all
persons, especially small children and
pets.
• Use mower only as the manufacturer
intended and as described in this manual.
• Do not operate mower if it has been
dropped or damaged in any manner.
Always have damage repaired before
using your mower.
• Do not use accessory attachments that
are not recommended by the manufac-
• Always thoroughly check the area to be
mowed and clear it of all stones, sticks,
wires, bones, and other foreign objects.
These objects will be thrown by the blade
and can cause severe injury.
• Always wear safety glasses or eye
shields when starting and while using
your mower.
• Dress properly. Do not operate mower
when barefoot or wearing open sandals.
Wear only solid shoes with good traction
when mowing.
• Check fuel tank before starting engine.
Do not fill gas tank indoors, when the
engine is running or when the engine is
PREPARATION:
2
hot.Allowtheengineto coolforseveral
minutesbeforefillingthe gastank.Clean
offanyspilledgasolinebeforestartingthe
engine.
• Always make wheel height adjustments
before starting your mower. Never
attempt to do this while the engine is
running.
• Mow only in daylight or good artificial
light.
OPERATION:
• Never cut grass by pulling the mower
towards you. Mow across the face of
slopes, never up and down or you might
lose your footing. Do not mow excessively steep slopes. Use caution when
operating the mower on uneven terrain
or when changing directions-- maintain
good footing.
• Never operate your mower without
proper guards, plates, grass catcher or
other safety devices in place.
MAINTENANCE
AND STORAGE:
• Check the blade and the engine mounting bolts often to be sure they are
tightened prooerly.
• Check all belts, nuts and screws at
frequent intervals for proper tightness to
be sure mower is in safe working
condition.
• Keep all safety devices in place and
• Keep your eyes and mind on your mower
and the area being cut. Do not let other
interests distract you.
• Do not mow wet or slippery grass. Never
run while operating your mower. Always
be sure of your footing-- keep a firm
hold on the handles and walk.
• Do not put hands or feet near or under
rotating parts. Keep dear of the discharge
opening at all times.
• Always stop the engine whenever you
leave or are not using your mower, or
before crossing driveways, walks, roads,
and any gravel--covered areas.
• Never direct discharge of matedai toward
bystanders nor allow anyone near the
mower while you are operating it.
• Before cleaning, inspecting, or repairing
your mower, stop the engine and make
absolutely sure the blade and all moving
parts have stooped. Then disconnect the
spark plug wire and keep it away from the
spark plug to prevent accidental starting.
• Do not continue to run your mower if you
hit a foreign object. Follow the procedure
outlined above, then repair any damage
before restarting and operating you
mower.
• Do not change the governor settings or
overspeed the engine. Engine damage or
personal injury may result.
• Do not operate your mower if it vibrates
abnormally. Excessive vibration is an
indication of damage; stop the engine,
safely check for the cause of vibration
and repair as required.
• Do not run the engine indoors. Exhaust
fumes are dangerous.
working.
• To reduce fire hazard, keep the engine
free of grass, leaves or excessive grease
and oil.
• Check grass catcher often for deterioration and wear and replace worn bags.
Use only replacement bags that are
recommended by and comply with
specifications of the manufacturer of your
mower.
• Always keep a sharp blade on your
mower.
• Allow engine to cool before storing in any
enclosure.
• Never store mower with fuel in the tank
inside a building where fumes may reach
an open flame or an ignition source such
as a hot water heater, space heater,
clothes dryer, etc.
CAUTION: Always disconnect spark plug
wire and place wire where it cannot
contact spark plug in order to prevent
accidental starting when setting up,
transporting, adjusting or making repairs.
WARNING
The engine exhaust from this product
contains chemicals known to the State of
California to cause cancer, birth defects,
or other reproductive harm.
3
Theseaccessories
wareavailable
whenthislawnmowerwasproduced.
Theyarealso
available
atmostSearsretailoutletsandservicecanters.MostSearsstorescanalsoorder
repairpartsfor you, when you provide the model number of your lawn mower. Some of these
accessoriesmay notapplyto yourlawn mower.
LAWN MOWER
PERFORMANCE
CUPPING DEFLECTOR
FOR REAR DISCHARGE LAWN MOWERS
_
MULCHER KITS
STABIUZER
FOR
_/
FOR
REAR DISCHARGE
GRASS CATCHERS
LAWN MOWERS
_
SIDE DISCHARGE
GRASSCATCHERS
LAWN MOWERS
(I
_
GAS CANS
LAWN MOWER MAINTENANCE
MUFFLERS
BELTS
/UR RLTERS
BLADES
BLADE ADAPTERS
Read these instructions and this manual
in its entirety before you attempt to
assemble or operate your new lawn
mower. Your new lawn mower has been
assembled at the factory with the exception of those parts left unassembled for
shipping purposes. All parts such as nuts,
washers, bolts, etc., necessary to complete the assembly have been placed in
the parts bag. To ensure safe and proper
operation of your lawn mower, all parts
and hardware you assemble must be
tightened securely. Use the correct tools
as necessary to ensure proper tightness.
TO REMOVE
CARTON
LAWN
MOWER
SPARK PLUGS
WHEELS
ENGINE OIL,
• Remove all packing materials except
padding between upper and lower
handle and padding holding operator
presence control bar to upper handle.
• Roll lawn mower out of carton and
check carton thoroughly for additional
loose parts.
HOW TO SET
MOWER
TO UNFOLD
UP YOUR
LAWN
HANDLE
IMPORTANT:
Unfold handles carefully
so as not to pinch or damage control
cables.
• Raise handles until lower handle
FROM
section locks into place in mowing
position.
• Remove protective padding, raise upper
handle section into place on lower
handle and tighten both handle knobs.
• Remove handle padding holding
operator presence control bar to upper
handle.
• Remove loose parts included with
mower.
• Cut down two end comers of carton
and lay end.panel down flat.
4
• Your lawn mower handle can be
adjusted for your mowing comfort,
Refer to "Adjust Handle" in the Service
and Adjustment section of this manual.
Operator presence controlbar
Uppe
Liftup
Mowing
position
Lower handle
KNOW YOUR LAWN MOWER
READ THIS OWNER'S MANUALAND SAFETY RULES BEFORE OPERATING YOUR LAWN
MOWER. Compare the illustrationswith your lawn mower to familiarize yourself with the
locationof various controlsand adiustments. Save this manual for future reference.
These symbols may appear on your lawn mower or in literature supplied with the
product. Leam and understand their meaning.
CAUTIO_
OF(W_
ENGINE
ON
ENGINE
OFF
F._ffR"
SLOW
CHOKE
FUEL
OiL
DANO_R, KEEP HANDS
AND FEETAWAY
Dperatorpresence controlbar
Engine zone control._.
cable
Starter handle
linefiller cap
,, Air filter
Pdmer
Lawn mower housing
Engine oil plug
MEETS CPSC SAFETY
Wheel ajduster
(on each wheel)
REQUIREMENTS
Sears mtan/walk-behind power lawn mowers conform to the safety standards of the American
National Standards Institute and the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission. The blade
turns when the engine is running.
uperator presence control 10er - must De
held down to the handle to start the engine,
Release to stop the engine,
Primer- pumps additionalfuel from the
carburetor to the cylinderfor use when starting
a cold engine.
Starter handle - used for startingthe engine.
5
The operationof anylawnmowercan
resultin foreignobjectsthrownintothe
eyes,whichcanresultinsevereeye
damage.Alwayswearsafetyglassesor
eye shields while operating your lawn
mower or performing any adjustments or
repairs. We recommend a wide vision
safety mask over spectacles or standard
safety glasses.
HOW
TO USE YOUR
LAWN
MOWER
ENGINE SPEED CONTROL
The engine speed was set at the factory
for optimum performance.
Speed is not
adjustable.
ENGINE ZONE CONTROL
TO ATTACH
CUTTING
CATCHER
• The grass catcher is secured to the lawn
mower housing when the rear door is
lowered onto the grass catcher frame.
CAUTION:
Do not run your lawn mower
without clipping deflector or approved
grass catcher in place. Never attempt to
operate the lawn mower with the rear door
removed or propped open.
CAUTION: Federal regulations require an
engine control to be installed on this lawn
mower in order to minimize the risk of
blade contact injury. Do not under any
circumstances attempt to defeat the
function of the operator control. The blade
turns when the engine is running.
• Your lawn mower is equipped with an
operator presence control bar which
requires the operator to be positioned
behind the lawn mower handle to start
and operate the lawn mower.
TO ADJUST
GRASS
• Close the flip lid. Flip lid must be closed
while operating lawn mower.
• Lift the rear door on the mower housing
and place the grass catcher frame onto
the formed tabs on the rear door hinge
bracket.
Grass
frame
bracket
Formed
tabs
TO EMPTY GRASS CATCHER
• To remove grass catcher, release
operator presence control bar to stop
engine.
• Lift up rear door and remove the grass
catcher by the handle.
NOTE: Do not drag the bag when
emptying; it will cause unnecessary wear.
HEIGHT
• Raise wheels for low cut and lower
wheels for high cut.
• Adjust cutting height to suit your
requirements. Medium position is bast
for most lawns.
• To change cutting height, squeeze
adjuster lever toward wheel. Move
wheel up or down to suit your requirements. Be sure all wheels are in the
same setting.
NOTE: Adjuster is propedy positioned
when plate tab inserts into hole in lever.
Also, 9-position adjusters (if so equipped)
allow lever to be positioned between the
plate tabs.
Lower wheels for
high cut
BEFORE STARTING
ENGINE
OIL
Your lawn mower is shipped without oil in
the engine.
• Be sure mower is level and area around
oil fill is clean.
Raise wheels for low
• Remove engine oil plug and fill to the full
line on the dipstick.
• Use 20 ozs. of oil. For type and grade
of oil to use, see =ENGINE" in Maintenance section of this manual.
• Pour oil slowly. Do not over fill.
_er
Plate tab
6
•
Check oil level before each use. Add oil
if needed. Fill to full line on dipstick.
• To read proper level, tighten engine oil
plug each time.
• Reinstall engine oil plug and tighten.
• Change the oil after every 25 hours of
operation or each season. You may
need to change the oil more often under
dusty, dirty conditions.
GAS
• Fill fuel tank. Use fresh, clean, regular
unleaded gasoline with a minimum of 87
octane. (Use of leaded gasoline will
increase carbon and lead oxide deposits
and reduce valve life). Do not mix oil
with gasoline. Purchase fuel in quantities that can be used within 30 days to
assure fuel freshness.
WARNING:
Experience indicates that
alcohol blended fuels (called gasohol or
using ethanol or methanol) can attract
moisture which leads to separation and
formation of acids during storage. Acidic
gas can damage the fuel system of an
engine while in storage. To avoid engine
problems, the fuel system should be
emptied before storage of 30 days or
longer. Drain the gas tank, start the
engine and let it run until the fuel lines and
carburetor are empty. Use fresh fuel next
season. See Storage Instructions for
additional information.
Never use engine
or carburetor cleaner products in the fuel
tank or permanent damage may occur.
Gasoline filler
cap
TO START ENGINE
• To starta cold engine, push primer five (5)
times before tryingto start, Use a firm push.
This step is not usually necessary when
starting an engine which has already run for
a few minutes.
• Hold operator presence control bar down to
the handle and pull starter handle quickly.
Do not allow starter rope to snap back.
• To stop engine, release operator presence
control bar.
NOTE: In cooler weather it may be necessary
to repeat priming steps. In warmer weather
over priming may cause floodingand engine
will not start. If you do flood engine, wa'_a few
minutes before attempting to start and do not
repeat priming steps.
MOWING TIPS
• Under certain conditions, such as very
tall grass, it may be necessary to raise
the height of cut to reduce pushing effort
and to keep from overloading the engine
and leaving clumps of grass clippings. It
may also be necessary to reduce
ground speed and/or run the lawn
mower over the area a second time.
• For extremely heavy cutting, reduce the
width of cut by overlapping previously
cut path and mow slowly.
• For better grass bagging and most
cutting conditions, the engine speed
should be set in the fast position.
• When using a rear discharge lawn
mower in moist, heavy grass, clumps of
cut grass may not enter the grass
catcher. Reduce ground speed (pushing speed) and/or run the lawn mower
over the area a second time.
• If a trail of clippings is left on the dght
side of a rear discharge mower, mow in
a clockwise direction with a small
Engine oil
ovedap to collect the clippings on the
next pass.
• Pores in cloth grass catchers can
become filled with dirt and dust with use
and catchers will collect less grass. To
prevent this, regularly hose catcher oft
with water and let dry before using.
• Keep top of engine around starter clear
and clean of grass clippings and chaff.
This will help engine air flow and extend
engine life.
7
ASYOU
COMPLETE
.EGuSE.V,OE
..
Check for Loose Fasteners
CleaWlnspect Grass Catcher
SE.V,OE
DATES
_/'
_
W
W
M
Clean Lawn Mower
O
(Power.Propelled
Clean
Under DdveMowers)
Cover
Check drive belt/pulleys
E
(Power-Propellnd Mowem)
Check/Sharpen/Replace Blade
I/
b/ 3
Lubdcation Chart
I_
tf
If
1_4
Clean
tf
Battery/Recharge
IElectdc Start Mowers I
E Check En_line Oil Level
N change
Engine Oil
V'
I/'1.2
G CleanAir Filter
I
I
Inspect
Ip/ 2
Muffler
N
Clean or Replace Spark Plug
v'
E
Replace Air Filter Paper Caflddge
¥12
1 - Change more oftenv#neno_oecalJng
under a heavy k_d or in high ambient temperatu_.
2 *.Sen,P..emore o41enwhen opera,rig in dldy o_dusty con_,ons.
3 - Replace blades more oeen when mov,mg in nndy zoil.
4 - Charge 48 houm at end of =ea.lon.
LUBRICATION
CHART
! Wheel
adjuster
GENERAL RECOMMENDATIONS
The warranty on this lawn mower does not
cover items that have been subjected to
• operator abuse or negligence. To receive full
value from the warranty, operator must
maintain mower as instructedin this manual.
Some adjustments will need to be made
periodicallyto properly maintain your unit.
All adjustments in the Service and Adjustments section of this manual should be
checl,,edat least once each season.
• Once a year, replace the spark plug, replace
air filterelement and check blade for wear.
A new spark plug and dean/new air filter
element assures proper alr-fual mixture and
helps your engine run better and last longer.
• Follow the maintenance schedule in this
_) Brake spdnge
bracket
(_ Engine oil
door
manual.
(_) Spray lubricant
,,_ SAE30 Motoroil. Referto ENGINE
MAINTENANCE Section.
BEFORE EACH USE
• Check engine oil level.
• Check for loose fasteners.
IMPORTANT: Do not oil or grease plastic
wheel bearings. Viscous lubricants will
attract dust and dirt that will shorten the life
of the self lubricating bearings. If you feel
they must be lubricated, use only a dry,
powdered graphite type lubricant sparingly.
LUBRICATION
Keep unit well 10bricated(See "LUBRICATION
CHART').
8
PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS
MODEL NUMBER
SERIAL
917.387254
NUMBER
DATE OF PURCHASE
HORSEPOWER:
4.0
DISPLACEMENT:
11.5 CU. IN.
GASOLINE
1.25 QUARTS
CAPACITY/TYPE:
UNLEADED
OIL TYPE (API-SF/SG/SH):
REGULAR
SAE 30 (ABOVE 32°F)
SAE 5W-30 (BELOW 32°F)
OIL CAPACITY:
SPARK PLUG(GAP:
20 OZS.
.030")"
VALVE CLEARANCE:
CHAMPION
RJ19LM OR J19LM
INTAKE:
.004 - .008
EXHAUST:
.004 - .008
SOLID STATE IGNITION
AIR GAP:
.0125 IN.
BLADE BOLT TORQUE:
35-40 FT. LBS.
The model and serial numbers will be found on a decal attached to the rear of the
lawn mower housing.Record both serial number and date of purchase in space
provided above.
LAWN MOWER
Always observe safety rules when
performing any maintenance.
TIRES
• Keep tires free of gasoline, oil, or insect
control chemicals which can harm
rubber.
• Avoid stumps, stones, deep ruts, sharp
objects and other hazards that may
cause tire damage.
BLADE CARE
For best results, mower blade must be
kept sharp. Replace bent or damaged
blades.
TO REMOVE
BLADE
• Disconnect spark plug wire from spark
plug and place wire where it cannot
come in contact with spark plug.
• Turn lawn mower on its side. Make sure
air filter and carburetor are up.
• Use a wood block between blade and
mower housing to prevent blade from
turning when removing blade bolt.
• Protect your hands with gloves and/or
wrap blade with heavy cloth.
• Remove blade bolt by turning counterclockwise.
• Remove blade and attaching hardware
(bolt, lock washer and hardened
washer).
NOTE: Remove the blade adapter and
check the key inside hub of blade adapter.
The key must be in good condition to work
properly. Replace adapter if damaged.
TO REPLACE BLADE
• Position the blade adapter on the engine
crankshaft. Be sure key in adapter and
crankshaft keyway are aligned.
• Position blade on the blade adapter
aligning the two (2) holes in the blade
with the raised lugs on the adapter.
• Be sure the trailing edge of blade
(opposite sharp edge) is up toward the
engine.
• Install the blade bolt with the lock
washer and hardened washer into blade
adapter and crankshaft.
• Use block of wood between blade and
lawn mower housing and tighten the
blade bolt, turning clockwise.
• The recommended tightening torque is
35-40 ft. Ibs.
TOSHARPENBLADE
NOTE: Wedo not recommendsharpening
blade- but ifyou do,be surethe bladeis
balanced.
Careshouldbetakento keeptheblade
balanced.An unbalanced blade will cause
eventual damage to lawn mower or
engine.
• The blade can be sharpened with a file
or on a grinding wheel. Do not attempt
to sharpen while on the mower.
• To check blade balance, drive a nail into
a beam or wall. Leave about one inch of
the straight nail exposed. Place center
hole of blade over the head of the nail.
If blade is balanced, it should remain in
a horizontal position. If either end of the
blade moves downward, sharpen the
heavy end until the blade is balanced.
IMPORTANT:
Blade bolt is grade 8 heat
treated.
Crankshaft
keyway
Blade
adapter
TEMPERATURE
RANGE
AN1]CFATE
D BEFORE
NEXT
0
NOTE: Although multi-viscosityoils (5W30,
10W30 etc.) improve starting in cold weather,
these multi-viscosityoils will resultin increased
oil consumption when used above 32°F.
Check your engine oil level more frequently to
avoid possible engine damage from running
low on oil.
Change the oil after every 25 hours of
operation or at least once a year if the
lawn mower is not used for 25 hours in
one year.
Check the crankcase oil level before starting
the engine and after each five (5) hours of
continuous use. Tighten oil plug securely each
time you check the oil level.
TO CHANGE ENGINE OIL
• Disconnect spark plug wire from spark
plug and place wire where it cannot
come in contact with spark plug.
• Be sure lawn mower is on level surface.
•
•
•
•
Key
Blade
Blade
bolt
shaft
washer Hardened
washer
S_ VISGO611Y
GRADES
Trailing
Blade
adapter
Oil will drain more freely when warm.
Catch oil in a suitable container.
Remove bottom oil drain plug.
After oil has drained completely, replace
oil drain plug and tighten securely.
• Refill engine with oil. Pour slowly. Do
not over fill.
• Fill to top of slot inside of filler hole.
• Reconnect spark plug wire to spark
plug.
edge
GRASS CATCHER
• The grass catcher may be hosed with
water, but must be dry when used,
• Check your grass catcher often for
damage or deterioration. Through
normal use it will wear. If catcher needs
replacing, replace only with a manufacturer approved replacement catcher.
Give the lawn mower model number
when ordedng.
ENGINE
LUBRICATION
Use only high quality detergent oil rated with
API service classification SF, SG or SH.
Select the oirs SAE viscosity grade according
to your expected operating temperature.
Drain plug
AIR FILTER
Your engine will not run properly and may
be damaged by using a dirty air filter.
Replace the air filter every year, more
often if you mow in very dusty, dirty
conditions. Do not wash air filter.
TO CHANGE
AIR FILTER
• Remove the air filter by turning counterclockwise to the stop and pull away from
collar.
• Remove filter from inside of cover.
10
• Cleanthe insideof thecoverand
the
collar to remove any dirt accumulation.
• Insert new tilter into cover.
• Put air tilter cover and filter into collar
aligning the tab with the slot.
• Push in on cover and turn clockwise to
tighten.
Tum CounterCollar
Clockwiseto
Remove
Air Filter
Tab
to Tighten
Air F_|terCover
MUFFLER
Inspect and replace corroded muffler as it
could create afire hazard and/or damage.
SPARK
PLUG
Change your spark plug each year to make
your engine start easier and run better. Set
spark plug gap at .030 inch.
CLEANING
IMPORTANT:
For best performance, keep
mower housing free of built-up grass and
trash. Clean underside of mower housing
after each use.
CAUTION:
Disconnect spark plug wire
from spark plug and place wire where it
cannot come in contact with the spark
plug.
• Turn lawn mower on its side. Make sure
air filter and carburetor are up. Clean the
underside of your lawn mower by
scraping to remove build-up of grass
and trash.
• Clean engine often to keep trash from
accumulating. A clogged engine runs
hotter and shortens engine life.
• Keep finished surfaces and wheels free
of all gasoline, oil, etc.
• We DO NOT recommend using a
garden hose to clean lawn mower
unless the electrical system, muffler, air
filter and carburetor are covered to keep
water out. Water in engine can result in
shortened engine life.
sections will have to be tumed over.
CAUTION:
Before performing anysen/ice
•
Remove the cable dips.
or adjustments
•
Remove the controls and operator presence
•
Release control bar.
control bar from the upper handle.
•
Make sure the blade and all moving
•
Remove the starter rope guide from the
parts have completely stopped.
upper handle.
•
Disconnect spark plug wire from
•
Remove hairpin cotters.
spark plug and place where it cannot
•
Disconnectthe lowerhandlefrom the
come in contact with plug.
handle brackets.
LAWN MOWER
• Turn the hanclte over and reassemble the
TO ADJUST CUTI'ING HEIGHT
hai_n cotters that have been removed.
See "TO ADJUST CUTTING HEIGHT" in the
•
Reassemble the starter rope guide.
Operation section of this manual.
• Re_n'bla
the controls aml the operator
REAR DEFLECTOR
presence controlbar to _ upper handle.
The rear deflector,attached between the rear
CAUTION: The operator presence controlbar
wheels of your lawn mower, is provided to
must pivot freely to permit blade brake.
minimize the poss'_l_thatobjects
wilt
be
engagement when controlbar is released, Do
thrown out the mar of the lawn mower into the
not over tighten the fasteners holdingthe
operator's mowing position.
controls to the upper handle.
ff
therearde_ectorbecomes damaged, it
• To change from medium low to high
shouldbe replaced.
position only the upper handle section
TO ADJUST HANDLE
will have to be turned over.
Your lawn mower handte can be raised or
•
To change from medium low to low
lowered for your mowing comfort. Four (4)
position, only the lower handle section
pos_ions are available: high, medium high,
will have to be turned over,
medium low and low. Handles are shipped
mounted in the medium low position.
• To change from medium low to medium
high position,the upper and lower handle
11
Shippingposition
Medium low
Medium high
%
T bu
_
Se_ _hem
Sewn hem
Flip lid
Lower frame
_Frames
Lowerhandle
Squeeze
remove
must be
Tubular frame
Hairpin clip
Lower frame handle
bracket
TO ASSEMBLE
GRASS
CATCHER
• Insert leg of tubular frame through front
opening of grass catcher and thread
frame into sewn hem of bag.
NOTE: Keep bag hem gathered on the
straight leg of the tubular frame.
• When frame comes out the other end of
sewn hem, immediately work the end of
frame down inside the bag as shown in
inset.
• Slide sewn hem evenly around the
tubular frame until both ends of frame
are exposed out of the front opening.
• Assemble lower frame to tubular frame
as shown. Be sure handle is outside of
bag and frames are fully seated as
shown in inset.
• Slip vinyl bindings over frame.
NOTE: If vinyl bindings are too stiff, hold
them in warm water foi"a few minutes. If
bag gets wet, let it dry before using.
• Close the flip lid. Flip lid must be closed
while operating lawn mower.
CAUTION: Do not run your lawn mower
without clipping deflector or approved
grass catcher in place. Never attempt to
operate the fawn mower with the rear door
removed or propped open.
ENGINE
CARBURETOR
Your carburetor has a non-adjustable fixed
main jet for mixture control. If your engine
does not operate pmpedy due to suspected
carburetor problems, take your lawn mower to
an authorized service center for repair or
adjustment.
ENGINE SPEED
Your engine speed has been factory set.
Do not attempt to increase engine speed
or it may result in personal injury. If you
believe that the engine is running too fast
or too slow, take your lawn mower to an
authorized service center for repair and
adjustment.
12
Immediatelyprepareyour lawnmowerfor
storageat theendofthe seasonor if the
unitwill notbe usedfor 30 days or more.
LAWN MOWER
When lawn mower is to be stored for a
period of time, clean it thoroughly, remove
all dirt, grease, leaves, etc. Store in a
clean, dry area.
• Clean entire lawn mower (See "CLEANING" in the Maintenance of this manual).
• Lubricate as shown in the Maintenance
section of this manual.
• Be sure that all nuts, bolts, screws, and
pins are securely fastened. Inspect
moving parts for damage, breakage and
wear. Replace if necessary.
• Touch up all rusted or chipped paint
surfaces; sand lightly before painting.
HANDLE
You can fold your lawn mower handle for
storage.
• Squeeze the bottom ends of the lower
handle toward each other until the lower
handle clears the handle bracket, then
move handle forward.
• Loosen upper handle mounting bolts
enough to allow upper handle to be
folded back.
IMPORTANT:
When folding the handle for
storage or transportation, be sure to fold
the handle as shown or you may damage
the control cables.
• When setting up your handle from the
storage position, the lower handle will
automatically lock into the mowing
position.
Operator presence controlbar
Fold forward
for storage
Lowerhandle
Handle
bracket
Squeeze to fold
Hairpin cotter
ENGINE
FUEL SYSTEM
IMPORTANT: It is importantto prevent gum
deposits from forming in essential fuel system
parts such as carburetor, fuel filter, fuel hose,
or tank during storage. Also, experience
indicates that alcohol blended fuels (called
gasohol or using ethanol or methanol) can
attract moisture which leads to separation and
formation of acids during storage. Acidic gas
can damage the fuel system of an engine
while in storage.
• Drain the fuel tank.
• Start the engine and let It run until the fuel
lines and carburetor are empty.
• Never use engine or carburetor cleaner
products in the fuel tank or permanent
damage may occur.
• Use fresh fuel next season.
NOTE: Fuel stabilizer is an acceptable
alternative in minimizing the formation of fuel
gum deposits during storage. Add stabilizer to
gasoline in fuel tank or storage container, k
Always follow the mix ratio found on stabilizer
container. Run engine at least 10 minutes
after adding stabilizer to allow the stabilizer to
reach the carburetor. Do not drain the gas
tank and carburetor if using fuel stabilizer.
Fold
backward
Mowing
position
Lower handle
13
ENGINE OIL
Drain oil (with engine warm) and replace with
clean engine oil. (See "ENGINE" in the
Maintenance section of this manual).
CYMNDER
• Remove spark plug.
• Pour one ounce (29 ml) of oilthrough spark
plug hole into cylinder.
• Pull starter handle slowly a few times to
distributeoil.
• Replace with new spark plug.
OTHER
• Do not store gasoline from one season to
another.
• Replace your gasoline can ifyour can starts
to nJsL Rust and/or dirtin your gasoline will
cause problems.
TROUBLESHOOTING
PROBLEM
Does not start
• If possible, store your unitindoors and cover
if to give protectionfrom dust and dirt.
• Cover your unif wifh a suifable protective
coverthat does not retain moisture. Do not +
use plastic. Plastic cannot breathe which
allows condensation to form and wilt cause
your unitto rust.
IMPORTANT: Nevercover rnowerwhile
engine and exhaust areas are still warm.
CAUTION: Never store the lawn mower with
gasoline in the tank inside a buildingwhere
fumes may reach an open flame or spark.
Allow the engine to cool before storing in any
enclosure.
CHART
CAUSE
CORRECTION
• Dirtyair filter.
• Outoffuel.
• Stalefuel+
• Clean/replace air filter.
• Fill fuel tank.
• Drain tank and refillwith
fresh clean fuel.
• Drain fuel tank and
carburetor and refilltank
• Water in fuel.
with fresh gasoline.
• Connect wire to plug.
• Spark plugwireis
disconnected.
• Bad spark plug.
• Loose blade or broken blade
adapter,
• Control bar in released
position,
• Control bar defective.
14
• Replace spark plug.
• TK:jhtenblade boltor
replace blade adapter.
• Depress controlbar to
handle.
• Replace control bar.
TROUBLESHOOTING
PROBLEM
Lo_
_power
CHART
CAUSE
CORRECTION
• Rear of lawn mower housing
or cutting blade dragging
in heaW grass.
• Cutting too much grass
• Dirty air filter`
• Buildup of grass, leaves,
and trash under mower.
• Too much oil in engine,
• Walking speed too fast.
• Set to "Higher Cut"
position.
• Set to "Higher Cut"
position.
• Clean/replace air fi,_en
• Clean underside of mower
housing.
• Check oil level.
• Cut at slower walking
speed
Poor cut - uneven
•Wom,
bent or loose blade.
• Wheel heights uneven.
• Replace blade T_jhten
blade belt.
• Set ail wheels at same
height
• a ldupofgrass,
leaves
and trash under mower.
Excessive
vibration
•Wom,
bent or loose blade.
• Bent engine crankshaft
Starter rope hard
to pull
• Engine flywheel brake is on
when controlbar is released.
• Bent engine crankshaft.
• Blade adapter broken.
• Blade dragging in grass
• Qean undemicleof
mowerhousing.
• Replace blade. "13ghten
blade bolt.
• Contact an authorized
service center.
• Depress control bar to
upper handle before
pullingstarter rope.
• Contact an authorized
service center,
• Replace blade adapter
• Move lawn mower to cut
grass orto hard Surface
Grass catcher
not filling ('dso
equipped)
• CutlJngheight too low.
• Uft on blade wom off.
• RaiseoutUnghe_.
• Replaceblade.
• Catcher not venting air.
• Clean grass catcher.
;Hard to push
• Grass is too high or wheel
height is too low.
• Rear of lawn mower
• Raise cutting height.
housing or blade dragging
in grass.
• Grass catcher too lull.
housing one (1) setting
higher.
• Empty grass catcher.
• Adjust handle height to
suit
• Handle height position not
rightfor you
15
• Raise rear of lawn mower
For in-home major brand repair service:
Call 24 hours a day, 7 days a week
1-800-4-MY-HOME s" (1-800-469-4663)
Para pedir servicio de reparaci6n a domicilio
1-800-676-5811
In Canada for all your service and parts needs call
Au Canada pour tout le service ou les pi_ces
1-800-665-4455
For the repair or replacement parts you need:
Call 6 am-11pm CST, 7 days a week
PartsDirect s"
1-800-366-PART (1-800-366-7278)
Para ordenar
piezas con entrega a domicilio
1-800-659-7084
For the location of a Sears Parts and Repair Center
in your area:
Call 24 Hours a day, 7 days a week
1-800-488-1222
For information
Agreement
on purchasing
a Sears Maintenance
or to inquire about an existing Agreement:
Call 9 am-5 pro, Monday - Saturday
1-800-827-6655
SEARS
Home Central s"
166729
Rev. 2
01.16.99
VB/TRNB
Printed in U.S.A.